David Archuleta ~ “Called To Serve” profiles David Archuleta as “A Ray of Light in a Dark World”, Fans react and share ~ see tweets here, Pictures and Quotes, KSL On Demand Viewer stats and FOD, Three Days Remaining for TDAMS! Friday Trend, Best Animation in Concert and a BONUS, Why We’ve Waited

“Some people just have a spark of greatness in them, that when brought out, benefits the world.”

~ Quote from Dean Kaelin about David Archuleta

Screencap Credit: Pastel

“A ray of light in a dark world … “

Screencap Credit: Pastel

* * * *

* * * * *

Called to Serve ~ A glimpse at the life of a missionary

But not just any missionary. This missionary is Elder Archuleta.

Before David left two years ago, he made it clear that his life as a missionary and his life as the artist were two different things.

But on Friday, he reached out to his fans with an invitation to obtain a glimpse into that world. And what a glimpse we got. It was visually beautiful, emotional, sometimes funny, but very revealing journey with David, from his emotional mission announcement to his return home into the arms of his family two weeks ago. With some parts stirring and personal, at times I felt a bit awkward peaking in on a touching scene, a family moment. We were moved to tears nevertheless, throughout the entire documentary.

For many of us, it was an emotional 30 minute journey. If you haven’t watched yet, here is the link to the On Demand version of “Called to Serve”

I’m not in any position to put a good summary together for you, even after watching the 5 times I have. Everyone will take away something different, something meaningful to them. No matter what our faith, we have to admire and respect David for his conviction, humility, honesty and transparency as he took us through his journey. Woven sublimely throughout this segment are indications of David’s commitment, his pureness, his bravery, his desire to serve and do good for others.

But none of these attributes are a surprise to us; rather, they just affirm what we already know about David: it’s about the music, but about much more than the music. And we got an opportunity to peak into that “much more” during the 30 minute journey.

Sorry folks, I’m finding all these feelings a little difficult to explain. I’ve been trying for 4 hours to do so. So instead, I offer a collection of thoughts from fans on twitter:

And the special provides some wonderful words from David, from his fellow missionaries and from friends. And they all reinforce what a dedicated and spiritual person David is. Below, a collection of visuals (from PattyAnn @pabuckie, unless otherwise stated) and quotes:

“My goal wasn’t to be technically perfect (for Imagine from American Idol). My goal was that people would feel the spirit”. ~ quote from Dean Kaelin about David’s words after the performance

“I don’t think you appreciate the sweet moments, until you pass through the hard times”. ~ David Archuleta

“Facing the challenges is how you learn how to do it.”

~ David Archuleta

“I thought (being a leader) was learning how to tell people what to do. But now I realize it’s just serving people.”

~ David Archuleta

“I know that music is a gift that God wants me to use to not only bless my life but the lives of others”.

~ David Archuleta

Screencap Credit: Pastel

“I’m still David, but I feel so different.” ~ David Archuleta

“I’m not afraid to show people who I am. And I’m not afraid of what I believe. I’m not afraid for people to know that” ~ David Archuleta

Screencap Credit: Pastel

“I’m hopeful for the future. Regardless of how it goes, I know music will always be a part of my life.”

~ David Archuleta

Screencap Credit: Pastel

“It’s about moving forward with faith. Not always knowing what’s going to happen with the decisions we make. We’ll just see what happens from here”.

* * * * *

Making an impact!

David is trending in SLC this morning! Thanks to Susan for letting us know!

* * * * *

David fans accepted his invitation!

There were so many people that wanted to watch Called to Serve that KSL ran into technical issues yesterday

And some of that traffic arrived from, you guessed it, Fans of David :). We are honoured to help send fans to KSL. And all of you on FOD comments helped to do that.

Called to Serve on DVD?

Apparently so. @Yellow4good got the word from Brett Atkinson, General Manager at KSL.

116 Responses to David Archuleta ~ “Called To Serve” profiles David Archuleta as “A Ray of Light in a Dark World”, Fans react and share ~ see tweets here, Pictures and Quotes, KSL On Demand Viewer stats and FOD, Three Days Remaining for TDAMS! Friday Trend, Best Animation in Concert and a BONUS, Why We’ve Waited

THANK YOU Pastel for the FANTASTIC post and those KILLER screencaps! Worked yesterday so I missed the Called To Serve livestream. But jackryan4DA saved the day with her links to the recorded segments! It was an AMAZING look at what transpired in those two years…and David’s speaking about it all brought me to tears! It was BEAUTIFULLY done…KUDOS to everyone involved. Looking forward to having that DVD!

THANKS pocoelsy for another GORGEOUS fan tribute vid! PERFECT!

Nana patrol! ENJOY YOUR DAY GUYS! Will be watching Called To Serve again at my daughter’s….she has a desktop computer with a bigger screen and I can crank up the sound!

Good morning everyone!! It’s been a rainy night in Georgia and will be a rainy day as well but that’s ok lol. I’m super grateful for being blessed with an amazing family and friends and just life. Have a great day everyone…I know I will!

I do agree with that quote. Jesus was a leader because he served and set the ultimate example. I’m grateful to have had people in my life who have taught me that and it is the standard for leadership in our church as it is the Biblical definition of leadership.

I just updated FOD with two things: David is trending RIGHT NOW in SLC (thanks Susan) and I added the graphic, and I corrected an error I made in one of the quotes. Thanks to those alerting me. Where would we be without all of you!

Good morning all! I was in awe of David (once again) after watching the special. I thought what I would write here, but words fail me other than I feel truly blessed. Blessed to know him….. I love the person he has become.

Good morning FOD!
Still basking in the warmth of Called To Serve. Pastel, thank you for your beautiful post about it. “But none of these attributes are a surprise to us; rather, they just affirm what we already know about David.” That is how I felt after watching. It reaffirmed what I’ve always felt about him. He is a beautiful soul inside and out. And…love that top pic!

ksf, yes, agree. David says the same about Jesus in the documentary (since you said you weren’t going to watch it.) And, of course, there are many good people in many faiths who also teach that beautiful truth. Leading is serving.

Pocoelsy, your vids are always so beautifully done!

Have a good day, everyone! Most of the snow has finally melted and I can see grass again!

The mission is over and the documentary is done so now we wait to see what direction David will decide to embark on going forward. I guess the Patience video is what right now matters most. I sincerely hope that his future plans include a return to what he did before his mission but more agressively. JMHO.

Hello Everyone! I respect David even more , he’s undeniably more mature and more confident now. I watched Called to Serve several times, his glow comes from soul, from God’s love. He’s really worth the wait.

Philly Fan – Yes! Totally agree although unfortunately I’m thinking it may be a while? There’s so much to catch up on as far as current music, taking the time to create new music , etc. I wouldn’t think he’d want to rush…at least I really hope not. I would be surprised if its next year before we get any original material from David which is great imo.

oh boo.. Kari will be very busy all year!
maybe why Gina is tweeting now.. she will take over her duties!?

On Air/Ryan Seacrest ‏@OnAirWithRyan 41m
.@JTimberlake extends The 20/20 Experience Tour … is coming to a city near you? http://onair.rs/1gD2GIN
November and December was added!
do hope David will go see his show.. from what I can tell it is amazing!
ha might pick up a few pointers!!

ksf. Also agree with you. I rather he take his time and produce something great that would propell him back into the spotlight of course if that is the direction he chooses to take. In the music business you need the best in the business in IMO to create a good sound. David has the goods but he needs to surround himself with people who can make that voice shine. JMHO

Good morning FOD! Thank you, Pastel for this mega post Called To Serve is beautiful as it is inspiring. How can anyone not see the good in serving others and anchoring one’s life in his faith in God? I guess the bashers will always find something to bash no matter what, lol. Looking forward to seeing you guys on Friday for our trending party
Love this Let It Go cover from The Piano Guys https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=6Dakd7EIgBE

will take money/backing etc to record quality current music.. does he have that type of support?
whatever he chooses so be it.. at this point just want to see him live again!
maybe he doesn’t want a big career.

I just hope that his manager and team have been working behind the scenes especially these last months, to get David back into the public eye! Just hope he will resume his recording career soon. By that I mean, getting together with writers and producers and begin working on music. He certainly doesn’t have to put out an album this year, but begin to start the process. And I would love to see him do some concerts during the summer. I guess these are my hopes and wishes, maybe they aren’t necessarily David’s. Time will tell.

Hey Kim! I dont think that one trend worked for David because
it was the same wording used for a previous trend effort, not long
before that one. Needed different wording.

David said before he left they were already working on things, for
his return & Kari said the best is yet to come. Get ready to have
your socks knocked off, I have a feeling great things for David are
coming

Philly Fan – So true. I just wonder what kind of career he wants? His first album will be a good barometer of that. Will he march to his own drum as he has in the past or will he specifically try to strike a balance between being true to himself and yet producing songs that have a more widespread appeal?

Mary Dee – I agree. There’s much to be admired in David. However, the specifics of faith and doctrine make that a murky topic that many don’t agree on. I think it depends on if you think doctrine matters or not. With that said, David is one of the bright lights, as Dean said up top and I hope he continues to seek God throughout his life as he is already an amazing example in so many ways.

I’m guessing that maybe the next vlog will give us an idea what is next for David and I’m thinking that won’t be coming for a while. That first tweet was so much fun and for a moment I though, he’s back, but clearly that isn’t the case.
Whatever direction David goes, he will always sing, heck he would fit in with the Mormon Tabernacle Choir, I’m sure he wouldn’t have a problem fitting in, lol.
As a fan nothing has changed for me I still want him to have a secular singing career and I still want him to keep his personal life private and separate from his professional life. I’m thinking that might not happen, a secular singing career and if he does for it, he might always include his personal belief in his public life, that’s his choose to make and only his, my choose is to expect it or not, that simple.
I’m still holding on to the thought that he will come back to a secular music career and dang it, until such time as he says that’s not going to happen, I’m still here waiting, lol.

I believe his team are working on things, I prefer him to take it slow, get the right material for the songs, those that are catchy and current appeal, than jumping into anything just because fans are so antsy, or else his next album could be the same result as TOSOD. Elder Corona was lucky to had David as his companion in mission. I’m sure they will miss each other friendship.

Hello Everyone! The “Called to Serve” video is just so heartwarming. I’ve lost count on the number of times that I’ve watched it. I would encourage those of you who have not watched it to do so, as it gives such insight into David’s beautiful spirit. Dean Kaelin’s comparing David to “a ray of light in a dark world” really spoke to me, as this is what drew me to David’s voice and spirit. Many fans have commented through the years that they were drawn to David and his music during a difficult period in their lives. This was certainly true for me. His spirit and joy brought peace to the darkness. I think that is why we have such a heart to heart connection to him. I have many musical artists that I enjoy, but the spirit that David shares is totally unique.

Checking in before work…now a days you don’t want to miss NEWS! Wonder when we’ll hear about the Called To Serve DVD? Sure want that in my collection! It’s AMAZING! So many questions and possibilities….EXCITING!

ENJOY your David time and fan friends! The Best Is Yet To Come…and I BELIEVE!

Like a lot of you, I’m lost for words in describing “Called to Serve.” What I posted on FOD yesterday was just my overall feeling of joy, but words don’t come close to describing it. I’ve learned that the best things in life are the ones we can’t describe.

Speaking of hiatuses from the music industry, when is Adele coming back? Last I heard, she was going to take five years off. When did she announce that? Two years off would seem a lot easier to come back from than five.

Jhen – Elder Corona and David both have that megawatt smile. Must be hard to resist. David did have several companions during his two years, but I’d bet that Corona is the most photogenic, lol.

Mango – Not my business, but I can’t figure out who was there at the airport and who wasn’t. Some, I know, came from the east coast, but others apparently didn’t come from nearby L.A. (if the rumors are true). Maybe only the practicing Mormons were invited–JK. In any case, plans for any potential airport fan greetings turned out to be moot since a large part of the terminal was shut down for them.

I’m SO THRILLED that “Called to Serve” will be on DVD!!!!! That thought never even occurred to me before today. Do I dare hope that there MIGHT be EXTRA STUFF on the DVD??? (e.g. full performances of some hymns, extended interviews with people, etc). Or will the DVD contain the half-hour special only? What do you think?

I have a little more compassion about non-David fans’ lack of knowledge after finding out that Adele was kidding. Unless you follow an artist super closely, it’s so easy to get misinformation and think it’s true or misinterpret the information you find out. LOL! Thanks for correcting me!

Hey all…I just can’t get over watching Called to Serve…I hope David does check in with us soon….just to take a temperature check….Some of the comments I saw last night after I watched the video made me wonder if David is really gonna come back to a music career……..I keep telling myself that he wouldn’t have done the vblog from the airport, or renewed his fan mail box for another year, and vbloged us asking for our for our patience if he didn’t intend to keep a music career going…….Kari also told us the best is yet to come……I guess I am just worry wart…….Anyway I will keep waiting for our ray of light in a dark world….Miss Vicki

Fantastic post Pastel!! THANK YOU! I watched David’s “Called to Serve” and cried all the way through it. He is such a special young man with a beautiful spirit!! He and his companion looked so happy together!!

Happy Monday! Called to serve was wonderful! You can tell David loved his Mission and I’m sure that has made his adjustment a little harder for him. Happy to be back with his family and beautiful Utah, but missing his new friends and special people from Chile. He definitely needs some time……and then he’ll be good and ready to sing once again. Quite an exceptional young man he is.

I didn’t think it really looked like Daniel….just hoping it was, I guess. It makes me feel bad that he wasn’t there. I wonder if David has discovered how many pictures and videos of him during his mission are on the internet. I’ll bet he will be shocked. I’m going to miss being surprised by an occasional picture or video.

That isn’t Daniel, I think that his other cousin too? Again Daniel must be in college in califorina maybe that why he isn’t with them in the pic??? David is so happy and blessed to be with his family since he back from mission, he is a family man!!! Goodnite

Thenewdavid….I don’t think David will be emotionally ready to be on Idol anytime soon….I just think he must have a lot of reconciling to do in his mind….Just think he just left Chile….a whole different culture…..I think he is gonna take some time to get back to thinking like David the pop star…..and that is why I think he is asking for our patience more that anything right now…..Just my thoughts….Miss Vicki

After having watched the documentary, I now know how David was able to have a private welcoming home with his family. I have worked at the SLC airport for 20+ years and up until yesterday, I thought the only two baggage claim areas were in Terminal 1 and Terminal 2. I had assumed that David would be taken to the baggage claim area in Terminal 2 to meet his family. HOWEVER, in the video, I learned that there is a third baggage claim area…….customs and border control for international flights! Only those coming in off international flights get access to the hallway that leads to this area. It makes total sense to me now because this hallway is located in the same concourse that David’s flight landed in. The international arrivals baggage claim area is MUCH closer to the gate David arrived at, which made for a much quicker and private get away. The international terminal baggage claim area isn’t busy like the other two are, so this made it possible for the family to have the area all to themselves for a private reunion with David!

Its kind of sad to think David actually worried that he would be booed off the stage by his fans when he made his announcement. I’ve always thought that his tears were a release from finally being able share the news he was so worried about sharing, and overwhelming relief at the applause from the audience…..rather than sadness about going. That was an interesting little insight we got from the CTS piece. Aww, David, you faced your fears and did it anyway. I’ve learned a few things from you, young man.

Bychance- you know what, why David can’t avoid to worried about being boo off stage, simply because even in his fan site, social media etc, there are some people who attack and downgrade Mormons. Some people just don’t have respect. You never know if he was able to read all those attack on his religion, I’m glad he fight for what he believe and conquered his fear.

Hi
I can not count how many time I watch “Call to serve” so very well done, David was so sincere and inspiring on there!!

Thank you Pastel for the wonderful post and thank you for posting the vid here <3 love all the screen caps galore…now that we can look at the pics without gulit !! he's looking great still looks young but at the same time so mature if that makes sense
Thank you all for your heartfelt comments that I used in my vid, those comments you all wrote'er so beautiful and true, I just cant pass it by !! David is truely blessed and loved.

It must be hard to be him !! sighhhh but then again people will find ways to criticized-belittle the famous people anyway it doesnt matter if they do good things or bad things, I think they kinda jealous !!

Fans of David

Fans of David is an unofficial fan community. We are not affiliated with David's official management or sites. Send your pictures, stories, videos, ideas, questions, comments, and any David Archuleta news or randomness to us!